3D-Printed Clay Bricks

We can fix this

Researchers at the American University in Cairo (AUC) have developed a 3D-printed clay brick solution aimed at sustainable, eco-friendly construction. This innovative project, a collaboration between the AUC’s Additive Manufacturing Centennial Lab (AMCL) and the Robotic Fabrication Lab (RFL), utilizes a specialized red fire clay mixture that includes minerals such as feldspar, quartz, and kaolin. The mixture is extruded using large-scale robotic 3D printing apparatus, which allows for the creation of complex structures with reduced energy consumption, time, and emissions compared to traditional construction methods. The 3D-printed clay bricks are more durable and heat-resistant than conventional clay bricks, making them suitable for various construction applications.

The use of locally sourced clay is a key component of the project’s sustainability goals. By leveraging abundant local materials, the AUC team aims to stimulate the local economy and provide affordable housing solutions. The technology also integrates with traditional manufacturing methods, complementing rather than replacing them, which allows for greater design freedom and innovation. According to Professor Hanadi Salem, chair of the AUC Department of Mechanical Engineering, this approach not only reduces the environmental impact but also helps companies develop concepts in-house, shortening the product development cycle and reducing reliance on foreign materials.

Image Credit: The American University in Cairo (AUC)